Flexible ultra-sonic probe - has inflatable plastics envelope over section of shaft to hold emitter in position without it touching sides of oesophagus

摘要

The ultra-sonic probe is for insertion into the oesophagus to monitor blood flow in the aorta. It comprises a flexible tube (1) made of PVC which carries a shaft and a co-axial electric cable (3) both of which are resistant to torsional forces. The cable has an ultrasonic emitter (17) at the A section of the tube is enclosed in a plastics envelope (11) which is inflated once the probe is in position in the oesophagus. The envelope holds the probe in position without letting it touch the sides of the passageway.